To Gamble is to Lose More Than Money

@ialfk5mq8p your progress is fantastic Gravity 😊 

Give us an update if you can!

Thank you @thebean. I have always followed your posts and that of @weirdfish for the encouragement and reminders to never become complacent. I'm thrilled to share that I've been 49 days gambling-free, and I intend to sustain this progress.

Gambling had a devastating impact on my life; it was a hellish addiction. However, I am glat that my mind and brain have made significant strides, and the urges are now rarely present.

I've been utilizing my free time wisely, indulging in solitary activities such as sleeping, reading books, improving my skills, watching movies, and nurturing relationships with family and friends. Additionally, I've discovered a new passion for engaging with people from around the world on Bigscreen VR, where we discuss topics in philosophy, international politics, sports, finance, cinema, addiction, etc.

I'm thoroughly enjoying this newfound version of myself. I am committed to no longer be enslaved by this addiction. The money I lost is gone, and I've come to realize that wealth will and can only be generated as long as I refrain from squandering my hard-earned money on gambling.

It's exhilarating to have sufficient funds to indulge in good food, clothing, tech and literature, while also being able to support my loved ones and contribute to charitable causes. Reflecting on my past, I recall with disdain the countless nights spent gambling until I lost everything. The subsequent anger, hatred, emptiness, and despair that followed were overwhelming. My mind would obsess over recouping losses, and I'd become entrenched in mental mathematics, desperate to reclaim my former financial standing. I also remember the anguish of being asked for financial assistance by others, knowing they perceived me as financially stable, whereas I was drowning in debt.

Never again will I succumb to such destructive patterns. Today, tomorrow, and forever, I'm resolute in my determination to be content with what I have, while striving to build the life I desire through legitimate means, and avoiding shortcuts that will only lead to destruction.

I recognise completely that this disease will always stay in a tiny part of my brain waiting for me to feed it into action. Thus, I cannot be complacent. "The best way to double my money is to fold it and put it in my pocket".

After six months of being gambling-free, I relapsed. Then the loss-chasing began. Each time, I told myself, “This is rock bottom.” But I’ve come to realize that rock bottom can always get worse if we allow it.

This time is different. This is a new low I’ve never experienced before. I lost £10,000 in 2 days. I’ve cried my heart out, but now I’ve self-excluded and installed Gamban.

I’ve asked myself: Will I ever beat this addiction? The answer is yes—but only if I truly want it. I need to acknowledge that there’s nothing at the end of the gambling tunnel but pain, tears, regret, and depression.

The best time for me to stop gambling was eight years ago. The second best time is now. I’ve wasted so much and lost so much because of this addiction. While my peers have moved forward in life, I’ve been stuck here, squandering opportunities and resources.

But today, I say: NEVER AGAIN. I have to stop this. I want this. I need this. My brain is f****d and so is my finances. I have to be done with gambling and the destruction it brings. This is my moment to take my life back.

If you’re reading this and struggling, know that you’re not alone. We can do this, but it starts with a choice and a commitment. Let’s choose ourselves, every day, be accountable and be discipline. People and resources can only help us, but ultimately the final decision lies with us.

@ialfk5mq8p So sorry to hear of your relapse! Listen what's done is done. Draw that line in the sand and focus harder than you ever focused before! Get on here every day, sounds like your determined! You know you can do this. We all support you and have your back! Good luck man we all understand where you are today, but tomorrow you will be a tiny tiny bit better !